Chemiluminescent detection of explosives, narcotics, and other chemical substances

ABSTRACT

A compact scanning apparatus has an infrared laser adapted to emit light. The light is delivered as a beam by an optical system to illuminate an interrogation area on the surface of an object being scanned. Such illumination has sufficient intensity and duration to cause selective desorption of molecules of the contraband substance, which are present on the surface, without substantially damaging the surface. A collection system collects at least a portion of the desorbed molecules. At least a portion of the collected molecules is thermally decomposed to form NO 2  and transferred to a reaction cell containing an aqueous, alkaline, luminol-containing solution. The NO 2  reacts with the luminol to produce light by chemiluminescence. A light detector registers the presence of this light as indicative of the detection of the contraband substance, and activates a signaling device to provide an audible or visible alarm. The apparatus rapidly detects the presence of a wide variety of contraband substances in an accurate, reliable manner. It provides for automated screening, with the result that vagaries of human performance are virtually eliminated. False alarms are reduced and detection efficacy is increased. A traceable residue of the detected contraband is left on the article for use in forensic analysis.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] This invention relates to the field of scanner apparatus andmethods; and more particularly to inspection systems that scan luggageand cargo to detect residues of explosives or other contrabandmaterials.

[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0004] In recent years, the prevalence of criminal activity that entailstransportation of weapons and contraband materials has been asignificant public concern. It has thus become vital to develop systemsfor detecting the presence of these materials, both when shipped asluggage or cargo and when carried by an individual. Of particularconcern is the need to detect items used as weapons by terrorists,including ordinary firearms and knives, items such as explosive orincendiary substances, and materials which present biological, chemicalor radiological hazards to people and property. The detection of illicitdrugs and narcotics being transported is also of concern.

[0005] The detection of contraband in the context of air and railtransportation is especially challenging, given the need to examinelarge numbers of people and articles of luggage and cargo withinacceptable limits on throughput and intrusiveness. Although physicalinspection is a widely practiced and important technique, it is slow,cumbersome, labor intensive, and dependent on the alertness andvigilance of the inspector.

[0006] Automated systems that screen for contraband have been sought formany years. Various techniques have been proposed to detect contrabandobjects and materials either directly or indirectly. Magnetometry iswidely used, and is sometimes effective in detecting metallic objectscarried by persons, but is not suited for screening cargo, whichlegitimately may contain large amounts of metal. Nuclear techniques,including x-ray, gamma-ray, neutron activation, and nuclear magneticresonance methods, are applicable for screening inanimate objects, butpose risks that generally preclude their use for screening humans. Insome cases, they are able to detect metallic objects, including weaponsand ancillary devices such as wires, power supplies, batteries, andtriggering mechanisms for explosive devices. However, there increasinglyexist threats posed by explosives associated with largely non-metallicobjects, which the aforementioned methods are less able to detect. Theadvent of modern plastic explosives presents an especially significantthreat. Even a modest, readily concealable amount of these substancescan cause a substantial explosion. Moreover, miscreants have becomeincreasingly adept at disguising weapons and explosive devices asordinary, innocuous objects. As a result, more refined indirect methodsfor detection of explosives are urgently sought.

[0007] Many of the indirect methods rely on the presence of vaporemanating from suspect material. One such indirect method, widely usedin law enforcement, employs dogs trained to sniff preferentially forexplosives, drugs, and the like. The remarkable olfactory sensitivity ofdogs has been known and exploited for centuries. However, they aresubject to fatigue, behavior variations, and the need for carefulhandling, training, and reinforcement from their masters. It thereforeremains highly desirable to have luggage scanning systems that are notsubject to these limitations. Also needed are luggage and cargo scanningsystems that rapidly and accurately discriminate among differentsubstances and indicate the quantity and location of a criticalsubstance.

[0008] The task of indirectly detecting the presence of suspectmaterials is further complicated by their wide variability in vaporpressure. Some explosives, including nitroglycerin (NG), dynamite, EGDN,and EGTN, are comparatively volatile, exhibiting significant vaporpressure at room temperature. DNT and TNT have lower, but stillappreciable room-temperature vapor pressure. However, some of the mostcritical materials for which detection is sought, e.g. drugs, such ascocaine and heroin, and plastic explosives, such as SEMTEX and C-4, arefar less volatile, having room temperature vapor pressures as much asten million times lower. It is virtually impossible to detect vapornaturally emanating from these low volatility materials. They are evenmore difficult to detect if sealed inside luggage or packaging.

[0009] It is known that certain contraband materials for which detectionis sought are inherently sticky. This characteristic is a notableproperty of many plastic explosives. As a result, particulate residuesare likely to be present (i) on the hands of a person who has evencasually handled the contraband, even after repeated hand washing, (ii)in fingerprints on surfaces such a person has subsequently touched, and(iii) as cross-contamination on the surface of a vehicle, shippingcontainer, or luggage in which the material has been placed. Forexample, a measurable amount of ammonium nitrate (AN) residue has beenfound on the lease documents for rental trucks; and significant amountsof the explosives PETN (pentaerythritol tetranitrate) and/or AN havealso been found on clothing and inside vehicles of suspects in twowell-publicized bombings. Therefore, explosive residue will likelypersist in large amounts on the explosive packaging and its environs, aswell as on the individuals involved in building, handling, andtransporting the explosive device, thereby providing an avenue fordetection of the presence of explosives. The detection of even traceresidues of critical substances on a person, article, or vehiclesuggests a strong likelihood of association with illicit activitywarranting further investigation.

[0010] The dual challenges of sample collection and analysis continue toimpede development of satisfactory screening systems for the aforesaidcontraband materials. As previously described, many of the materialswhose detection is most critical have extremely low vapor pressure. Theequilibrium concentration in the atmosphere near a contaminatedfingerprint may be only parts per billion or trillion, a value too lowfor known detection schemes. Hence, previous detection methods havefrequently employed mechanical means for collecting and/or concentratinga sample to achieve detectability. In some cases, disposable swabs orwipes of dry paper or cloth are rubbed by an operator against luggage orshipping containers to pick up detectable amounts, if any, ofparticulate residue. Such wipes may also be wetted with a solvent tofacilitate residue pickup. In either case, the wipe is subsequentlytransferred to a suitable detection system for chemical analysis.

[0011] If carried out with rigorous attention to collection protocols,wipe techniques provide an effective method of manually collectingsamples from the surface of objects. However, known wipe systems have anumber of significant limitations. They generally require an operatorand are not conveniently adapted to automation. Their throughput islimited by the cumulative time needed for the essential multipleoperations—in addition to the actual analytical time, the processrequires the prior intermediate steps of wiping the article under testand transferring the wipe to the detection system. The detectionefficacy and success of wipe systems is generally dependent on humanfactors. Stress and the frequent confusion extant in a busy publicfacility may cause an operator to fail to carry out an adequatesampling. The wiping operation frequently fails to cover a sufficientlyrepresentative portion of an article to insure that whatever residuesare present are actually captured. Lint, dirt, solvent, and otherextraneous material of no interest are inevitably introduced into thedetection system. In some cases these contaminants reduce the system'ssensitivity by diluting the concentration of the analyte andnecessitating frequent, non-productive cleaning operations.

[0012] Other known systems have employed mechanical brushing or shakingof articles or impingement of a compressed gas stream to dislodgeresidue particles. While these methods are more amenable to automationthan wiping-based methods, they still are not sufficiently fast andefficacious for the demanding requirements of inspecting items to becarried as cargo or hand luggage on aircraft, for example. Furthermore,regulation of the pressure and volume of the gas stream is a significantchallenge, as the flow must be sufficient to dislodge particles but notso high that it is not possible to capture what is removed.

[0013] Systems have also been proposed for detecting the presence ofresidues on a human subject passing through a tunnel-like portal. Theportal may include means for flowing gas across the subject to dislodgeparticulate residues, collecting the gas, filtering or otherwiseconcentrating the particulates to above a detection limit, and passingthe concentrated sample to a suitable detector. However, improvement inthese systems is still desired. Flowing gas is at best an inefficientvehicle for collecting adequate sample. Disruptions of the airflow owingto the motion of subjects passing through the portal further compromisesample collection. In addition, the need to pre-concentrate a samplelimits the analysis rate, making it difficult to reliably associatedetection of contraband substances of interest with a specific personpassing through the sampling portal.

[0014] Each of the indirect screening systems previously discussedrequires means for sample collection and analysis that discriminatesuspect substances from components normally present in the atmosphere.To be effective, the sample collection and analysis means mustadditionally discriminate suspect substances from the myriad of vaporsproduced by items of ordinary commerce.

[0015] A number of vapor detection methods have been proposed. Thesevapor detection methods have found use in laboratory analysis. Amongthem are electron capture detection, gas chromatography detection, massspectrometry detection, plasma chromatography detection, bio-sensordetection and laser photoacoustic detection.

[0016] There have also been suggested systems for detecting explosiveresidues that do not rely on vapor detection. One example is the use ofa controlled burst of laser radiation to induce selective deflagrationor micro-detonations of explosive residues on the surface of an article.The resulting reaction produces an optical signature characteristic ofthe explosive residue. The system relies on detection of this opticalsignature. As used herein, the term “deflagration” means a slow chemicaloxidation of the material, with a burn front which propagates at lessthan the velocity of sound. The term “detonation” as used herein means areaction similar to deflagration that occurs at a much faster rate.Detonation is characterized by wave propagation at a supersonic ratewith respect to the unreacted material.

[0017] Notwithstanding the aforementioned schemes both for samplecollection and analysis, there remains a need in the art for integratedsystems capable of reliably, accurately, and rapidly detecting thepresence of contraband substances, especially explosives, accelerants,and illicit drugs. More particularly, there is need for systems that arereadily automated for semi-continuous or continuous inspection anddetection of the presence of residues of such materials on luggage,cargo, vehicles, freight containers, and related items. Such systems arehighly sought, especially in the context of airport screening, but wouldbe equally valuable for courthouses, stadiums, schools, governmentoffices, military installations, correctional institutions, and otherpublic venues that might be targets of terrorist or similar criminalactivity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The present invention provides a method and system for detectingsmall quantities of explosives and other contraband substances locatedon the surfaces of objects. The technique employs a chemical reactionbetween NO₂ gas and luminol in an aqueous, alkaline solution. Undersuitable conditions, the vast majority of common explosive types may bedecomposed to produce NO₂ gas that is detected using the apparatuspresented herein. The luminol reaction is known to produce light by aprocess termed chemiluminescence. This light, in turn, is detected tosignal the presence of the contraband substance.

[0019] The use of the luminol reaction enables a compact scanning systemin accordance with the present invention to detect the presence of awide variety of contraband substances in an accurate and reliablemanner. The system rapidly and accurately discriminates among differentsubstances and provides quantitative indication of the amount andlocation of a critical substance. It is especially well suited for usein applications which require high throughput and accuracy, such assecurity screening associated with airline and other forms of publictransportation.

[0020] Advantageously, the system provides in some aspects for automatedscreening. It can be configured to automatically scan substantially theentire exterior surface of luggage and other hand-carried personalitems, as well as cargo, without the need for hand wiping or sampling byan operator or other physical contact. Vagaries of human performance arevirtually eliminated, and detection efficacy is improved. The system'sgreater speed, accuracy, reliability, and flexibility, as well as itslower cost, and expanded range of detectable substances overcomeproblems associated with commercial scanning systems. Importantly, thesystem of this invention markedly reduces or eliminates false alarmswhile maximizing detection sensitivity for actual contraband. Followingdetection of contraband, a traceable residue thereof is left on thearticle for use in subsequent forensic analysis by law enforcement orother agencies.

[0021] More specifically, the present invention is directed to a methodand system for the detection of contraband substances, including thosepresent on the surface of baggage items. As used herein, the term“baggage item” is intended to include non-exclusively objects such asluggage, suitcases, cargo, freight, boxes, cartons, envelopes, crates,packages, personal articles, and the like, appointed for transport onaircraft, rail, ship, bus or other like public conveyance.

[0022] Generally stated, the method comprises the steps of: (i)producing NO₂ by decomposition of at least a portion of the contrabandsubstance; (ii) transferring the NO₂ to a reaction cell, a portion ofwhich contains an aqueous, alkaline luminol solution; (iii) reacting,within a reaction cell, the NO₂ with luminol in the presence of O₂ toproduce light by chemiluminescence; and (iii) detecting the light with alight detector to indicate the presence of the contraband substance.

[0023] The system of the invention can detect the presence of a widevariety of contraband substances. As used herein, the term “contraband”is intended to denote substances or articles whose transportation orpossession is forbidden or improper. A wide variety of substances orarticles may be considered as contraband, including non-exclusively:firearms and similar weapons; explosives and explosive devices;incendiaries, propellants, and accelerants; drugs such as heroin,cocaine, opium and its derivatives and other narcotics, cannabis(including marijuana and hashish), amphetamines and barbiturates;hallucinogens and psychotropics; and other substances and articles whichpresent biological, chemical or radiological hazards to people andproperty. In general, any of these materials which may be decomposed toproduce NO₂ may be detected.

[0024] In one aspect of the invention there is provided a system forscreening at least a portion of the surface of a baggage item for thepresence thereon of a contraband substance. The system comprises: (i) aninfrared laser adapted to emit light; (ii) an optical system adapted todeliver a beam of the laser light to illuminate an interrogation area ofthe surface, the illumination having sufficient intensity and durationto cause selective desorption of molecules of the contraband substancepresent on the surface without substantially damaging the surface, andat least a portion of the molecules being thermally decomposed toproduce NO₂ molecules; (iii) a collection system having an aperture andbeing adapted to collect at least a portion of the desorbed moleculesthrough the aperture; (iv) a reaction cell in communication with thecollection system, the reaction cell having a reaction zone, an inletfor receiving in the reaction zone the molecules collected by thecollection system, an outlet for release of the air, and the reactioncell containing an alkaline, aqueous luminol-containing solution; (v) alight detector to detect light produced chemiluminescently by a chemicalreaction between the luminol and the NO₂ within the reaction cell and tooutput an electrical signal indicative of the detection of the light;and (vi) signal means for indicating the presence of the NO₂ produced bythe decomposition of the contraband substance, the signal means beingoperably connected to the light detector and responsive to the receiptof the electrical signal.

[0025] In some implementations, the invention further comprises meansfor relative motion of the baggage item and the laser light beam,thereby permitting an extended interrogation zone to be scanned forexplosives. As a result, the system may easily be automated for use inapplications that require high throughput and accuracy, such as securityscreening associated with airline and other forms of publictransportation. The system provides for automated screening that canscan substantially the entire exterior surface of luggage and otherhand-carried personal items, as well as cargo, without the need for handwiping or sampling by an operator or other physical contact. Real timeautomated detection is thereby accomplished in an accurate, reliablemanner. As a result, the inevitable vagaries of human performance arevirtually eliminated, improving the efficacy of detection. The presentsystem is also useful for screening in other contexts, includingcourthouses, stadiums, schools, government offices, militaryinstallations, correctional institutions, and similar public venues thatmight be targets of terrorist or similar criminal activity. Thecombination of speed, accuracy, reliability, flexibility, low cost, andrange of critical substances detectable solves problems associated withprior art scanning systems and renders the present invention highlyadvantageous. Furthermore, the present invention markedly reduces oreliminates false alarms while maximizing the probability of detection ofactual contraband.

[0026] The present system is also capable of detecting the presence ofcontraband in a nondestructive manner, such that the surface beingstudied is left substantially undamaged as a result of being scanned bythe present laser desorption system. That is, the appearance andfunction of the scanned surface is not harmed. Although in some cases,minimal changes may occur that are detectable only by microscopic orother sophisticated analytical means, the overall presentation of thearticle to the ordinary human senses is unaffected.

[0027] The disclosed method further comprises an optional pyrolysis stepthat produces additional NO₂, predominantly by pyrolyzing particlesablated by the impingement of the laser light. Sufficient NO₂ isproduced to be detectable using the luminol reaction, thereby renderingthe presence of the contraband substance detectable, even if the amountthereof is quite limited. The specific minimum amount of explosive orother contraband that is detectable depends on the material, but may beas low as the sub-nanogram level. The interrogation area may besubstantially the spot size of the beam. Alternatively the beam may bevariably deflected or the object moved to vary the point of impingement,thereby extending the interrogation area generally to a linear region oran extended, two-dimensional area. It is preferred that theinterrogation zone comprise at least a substantial portion of the objectunder scrutiny. The ejected material is collected in a collection systemand analyzed by a chemical analysis system adapted to detect thepresence of at least one contraband substance. An audible or visualindication is provided upon detection of a contraband substance.

[0028] The present system is adapted for the detection of a wide varietyof contraband substances for which detection is desired. The chemicalanalysis systems disclosed herein can be readily be adjusted andsuitably calibrated and operated to be sensitive and selective fordetection of such materials, notably including modern explosivematerials such as C4, SEMTEX, and DM12.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The invention will be more fully understood and furtheradvantages will become apparent when reference is had to the followingdetailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention andthe accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denotesimilar elements throughout the several views, and in which:

[0030]FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an explosive detection system of theinvention using a removable collection tube;

[0031]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an explosive detection system ofthe invention;

[0032]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an automated explosive detectionsystem for screening items of luggage;

[0033]FIG. 4 is a graph depicting the observed count rate forchemiluminescent light emitted in the reaction of luminol and airalternately containing and not containing 10 ppb of NO₂ and detectedusing a detection system of the invention;

[0034]FIG. 5 is a graph depicting the observed count rate forchemiluminescent light emitted in the reaction of luminol and NO₂produced by the thermal decomposition of the taggant DMNB at aconcentration of 100 ppt in air, along with a blank, as determined usinga detection system of the invention;

[0035]FIG. 6 is a graph depicting the observed count rate forchemiluminescent light emitted in the reaction of luminol and NO₂produced by the thermal decomposition of the taggant DMNB at a series ofconcentrations in air, as determined using a detection system of theinvention;

[0036]FIG. 7 is a bar graph depicting the total observed counts forchemiluminescent light emitted in the reaction of luminol and NO₂produced by the thermal decomposition of the taggant DMNB at a series ofcompositions using a detection system of the invention employing asemi-permeable membrane;

[0037]FIG. 8 is a bar graph depicting the total observed counts forchemiluminescent light emitted in the reaction of luminol and NO₂produced by the thermal decomposition of the taggant DMNB and theexplosives EGDN and NG in air, as determined using a detection system ofthe invention.

[0038]FIG. 9 is a bar graph depicting the total observed counts forchemiluminescent light emitted in the reaction of luminol and NO₂produced by the thermal decomposition of a series of common explosivematerials in air, as determined using a detection system of theinvention; and

[0039]FIG. 10 is a graph depicting the observed count rate forchemiluminescent light emitted in the reaction of luminol and NO₂produced by the thermal decomposition of a series of common explosives,as determined using a detection system of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0040] The present invention provides an apparatus and method foranalyzing surface residue suspected of containing one or more explosiveagents or other contraband substances using the chemiluminescent,gas-liquid phase reaction of luminol and NO₂.

[0041] Virtually all common explosive types, including organo-nitroexplosives, as well as many other contraband substances of interest maybe decomposed under suitable conditions to produce NO₂. In one aspect ofthe invention, the decomposition comprises pyrolysis according toreactions of the following type:

[0042] The pyrolysis reaction ordinarily requires a suitable catalystfor efficient production of NO₂. It has been found that suitablecatalysts include heated Nichrome or Pt, while a heated Pt—Rh alloy ispreferred. The catalyst preferably has the form of a wire that iselectrically heated to a temperature ranging from about 300 to 800° C.,and more preferably, to a temperature ranging from about 500 to 700° C.Pyrolysis does not occur if the temperature is too low, while excessivepower is required to raise the temperature too high. Power consumptionis also preferably limited by pulse heating the catalyst. Moreover,adjustment of the peak temperature allows selective optimization of thesensitivity of the system to different nitrogen-bearing substances. Theoptimal catalyst temperature will also vary to some degree depending onpulse duration.

[0043] In another aspect described hereinbelow in more detail, NO₂ isreleased from explosive residue on the surface of an object by thermaldecomposition resulting from the impingement of laser light thereon. Itwill be understood that other means may also be used to decomposecontraband substances to produce detectable NO₂ and are within the scopeof the present invention. In addition, the invention provides for thedetection of ambient NO₂ from other sources.

[0044] Luminol (5-amino-2,3-dihydro-1,4-pthalazine dione) is known toreact with NO₂ in the presence of oxygen to produce light at awavelength centered at about 425 nm according to the following reaction:

[0045] The light thereby produced can readily be detected by a lightdetector, such as a photomultiplier tube (PMT). Advantageously,conventional PMT's are quite sensitive to light of this wavelength.

[0046] Moreover, this chemiluminescent reaction can be made quiteselective to NO₂ under suitably chosen conditions, so that othernitrogen-containing compounds such as ammonia, organic nitrite, organicnitrate, NO, and hydrocarbons do not interfere.

[0047] The disclosed method has several significant advantages overprevious methods for detecting NO₂. In one known method, NO₂ is firstconverted to nitric oxide (NO), which is subsequently reacted with ozone(O₃). This reaction is also chemiluminescent, but the light emitted hasa substantially different peak wavelength. Such a method requires tworeaction steps and provision of a source of O₃, making both the methodand the apparatus needed to carry it out more complicated, expensive,and difficult to implement than the present invention. Furthermore, themethod is highly prone to inaccuracy, since there is no means fordiscriminating between (i) the relatively small amount of NO derivedfrom the NO₂ from pyrolyzed explosive and (ii) ambient NO, which is acommon air pollutant often present in substantially largerconcentration.

[0048] The selectivity of the present system for NO₂ is further enhancedby providing luminol in an aqueous, alkaline solution. The luminolpreferably is present at a concentration ranging from about 0.3 to 3 mM.Higher concentrations of luminol tend to absorb the emitted light,decreasing the detectable signal. Preferably, the base is provided at aconcentration ranging from about 10⁻³ to 5 M. Use of potassium hydroxide(KOH) as the base is preferred, as it surprisingly has been found toincrease the chemiluminescent light output over that resulting fromsolutions comprising other bases such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH).Sufficient alkalinity has been found to reduce the negative interferenceof ambient CO₂. The alkalinity is believed to counter the tendency ofCO₂ to acidify the luminol solution. It is also preferred that thesolution further comprise a sulfur compound to beneficially reduce theinterference from competing reactions of luminol with SO₂ and O₃, whichare also common atmospheric pollutants. Suitable sulfur compoundsinclude Na₂S, Na₂S₂O₄, and Na₂SO₃. The presence of the sodium sulfite(Na₂SO₃) at a concentration ranging from about 10⁻³ to 0.1 M has beenfound to be particularly effective. A more preferred solution comprises10⁻³ M luminol, 1.0 M KOH, and 10⁻¹ M Na₂SO₃. It is also preferred thatthe luminol solution further comprise a chemiluminescence enhancer suchas p-iodophenol to increase the intensity of the signal. The specificityof the reaction to NO₂ is also enhanced by the inclusion in the solutionof small amounts of one or more alcohols, preferably including but notlimited to, lower alcohols such as methanol, ethanol, propanol,isopropanol, and butanol.

[0049] Referring now to FIG. 1 of the drawings, there is depicted anexplosive detection system 79 of the invention. A collection meanscomprises glass collecting tube 84, open at both ends and at leastpartly filled with adsorbent 96; heater 85; and the associated piping.Adsorbent 96 is preferably composed of a powder of poly(2,6-Diphenylphenylene oxide). Such material is available commercially from the EnkaResearch Institute Arnhem under the tradename Tenax GC™. However, otheradsorbent substrates, including non-exclusively wire mesh, glass wool,and activated carbon, may also be employed. A sample of vapor or plumein air and appointed to be tested for the presence of explosive agentsis passed into tube 84 for collection on adsorbent 96. Tube 84 issubsequently placed into heater 85. One end of tube 84 is connected byair pump line 82 to mechanical air pump 81, while the opposite end oftube 84 is connected to intake port comprising inlet 97 of reaction cell98 by transfer line 87. Heat from heater 85 is applied to glass tube 84,causing vapor to be desorbed from adsorbent 96. The vapor is swept fromtube 84 by air flowing from air pump 81 and into transfer line 87, whichcontains a pyrolyzer 86. It will be understood that mechanical air pump81 may be replaced by an alternate pumping source of carrier gas underpressure, such as a compressed gas cylinder. Instead of ambient air, thecarrier gas may be any other oxygen-containing gas or mixture compatiblewith other aspects of the disclosed process. In the aspect depicted, thedecomposition means comprises pyrolyzer 86, in this case a heated Pt—Rhalloy wire. Any explosive present in the vapor is catalyticallypyrolyzed, producing NO₂ gas that enters the gas stream from air pump81. The carrier gas, now containing any NO₂, resulting from pyrolysis ofany explosive desorbed from adsorbent 96, is carried into reaction cell98. Some of the NO₂, if present, diffuses through semi-permeable,hydrophobic membrane 90 and contacts solution 99 containing luminol. Thereaction produces a molecule in an excited state that decays bychemiluminescence to produce photons having a wavelength centered atabout 425 nm. A light detector, in this case comprising photomultipliertube (PMT) 93 and an associated power supply and control and detectionelectronics of conventional design (not shown), detects the emittedphotons and provides a digital or analog electrical signal representingthe amount of light detected. Advantageously, common PMT's havesubstantial sensitivity in the 425 nm wavelength range. The lightdetector optionally incorporates an optical filter (not shown)interposed between the reaction cell 98 and PMT 93. The filterselectively transmits light having a wavelength within a preselectedrange encompassing the wavelengths emitted in the luminol-NO₂ reaction.PMT 93 is connected to a digital computer 94 for control and analysis.Computer 94 is preferably a personal computer of conventional type, butmay also be a microcomputer or other similar device comprising adigitial electronic processor or general purpose computer suited forcontrol and analysis. Preferably computer 94 also comprises a displayfor output and communication with an operator or system user. Computer94 may also be networked to other computer and electronic systems in aconventional manner.

[0050] The luminol solution employed in the practice of the presentinvention is advantageously provided in a replaceable cartridge orscintillation vial and sealed therein by a semi-permeable, hydrophobicmembrane that permits diffusion of NO₂ into the vial but reliablyconfines the luminol solution. Preferably the membrane is composed atleast one of polypropylene and PTFE and has a pore size ranging fromabout 0.1 to 8 μm. A pore size ranging from about 4 to 6 μm is morepreferred. By way of contrast, prior art luminol-based analysis systemstypically employ a reservoir of luminol solution that is provided in thereaction zone either as free liquid or conveyed by a wick system. Eitherapproach is cumbersome and entails significant drawbacks, such as thosedescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,765,961. The free liquid is generallypumped from a reservoir to a waste vessel by a pump such as aperistaltic pump. The pump must be maintained and the reservoirrefilled, necessitating skilled expertise and the inevitableinconvenience of transferring liquid solution.

[0051] In addition, it is difficult to operate and reliably calibratesystems which provide luminol either from a wick or free liquid. Ineither case, the effective surface area of the liquid is subject tosignificant variation, leading to a proportionate change in theintensity of the chemiluminescent reaction, which occurs at liquid-gasinterface or within a short diffusion distance from the surface. Freeliquid may slosh for many reasons, including external vibrations and inthe course of pumping of the luminol solution. The meniscus on top ofthe luminol source may change shape due to contaminants orirregularities of the container surface. The wicking action may likewisechange as a result of particulate deposits or other interfering effects.

[0052] Supplying the luminol solution in a replaceable cartridge sealedby a semi-permeable membrane is especially advantageous for an apparatusthat is intended to be portable or used in field operations such asairport baggage screening. In these applications the cartridge has asufficient charge to allow the unit to operate for up to several weeks.The cartridge may be replaced rapidly by operators who need not bespecially trained, so that far less downtime is needed for maintenancethan with the previous units, for which the maintenance requires muchmore time and a substantially higher level of expertise. Calibration ofthe analysis unit is readily and accurately accomplished. The modularityof the system obviates the inconvenience and risk of spillage associatedwith replenishment of a liquid reservoir of the type used in previoussystems. The sealed cartridge also makes the present system easier totransport or operate portably than a system having an open reservoir forthe luminol solution.

[0053] In another aspect of the invention, collection of sample isaccomplished by impinging infrared laser light on the surface to bescanned. Depending on the fluence of the laser light, material isremoved from the surface by either desorption or ablation, or acombination thereof. The plume resulting from the incident radiation mayinclude the contraband substance in the form of monomers, largermolecules, discrete particles of a variety of sizes, or a combinationthereof. Preferably the laser illumination used in the present inventionhas a sufficient intensity and duration to cause either vapor orparticles of contraband residue, or a combination thereof, to bethermally desorbed or ablated.

[0054] The laser light-based collection means is especially advantageousfor detecting explosives and other contraband concealed within luggage,packages, cargo, and the like. A very limited number of known explosivematerials, e.g. nitroglycerin, have a sufficiently high room-temperaturevapor pressure to cause emission of substantial vapor even ifsequestered inside a package. However, other very common explosivescarry equal or greater explosive energy; yet have vapor pressures thatare orders of magnitude lower. As a result, materials posing enormouspotential for harm, such as SEMTEX, DM12, and C-4, emit minisculeamounts of vapor whose concentration is too low to be detected by knownmethods. These materials pose a grave threat in the hands of terrorists.Since the plastic explosives have little if any content of metals orother heavy elements, they exhibit little signature for x-ray detection.Moreover, they are available in a variety of physical forms, includingmoldable, clay-like substance and as thin sheets, making them relativelyeasy to disperse and hide among seemingly innocuous, ordinary objects.

[0055] Despite the importance of detecting these plastic explosives,currently practiced methods still have significant limitations anddrawbacks. In one approach to facilitate tracing and to enhance thedetectability of these materials, legitimate commercial and governmentalmanufacturers virtually always incorporate taggants having substantialvapor pressure in their products. The International Civil AviationOrganization (ICAO) has specified certain of such taggants. DMNB(2,3-dimethyl-2,3-dinitrobutane) has been identified as being especiallyadvantageous, since it can readily be incorporated in explosives withoutcompromising their shelf life or stability. The present system readilydetects such taggants. However, illicit explosives made by terrorists orother criminal elements are highly unlikely to incorporate taggants.

[0056] Other approaches rely on the propensity of plastic explosives totransfer residues to the hands of a user and to their environs, whichthereby provides avenues for detection. These explosive materials aregenerally composed of particles of high explosives like RDX, PETN, andHMX in a sticky, polymeric matrix. Mechanical wiping and abrasionmethods can be used to collect surface samples that include theseresidues.

[0057] Surface residues and fingerprints contaminated by plasticexplosives initially contain substantial amounts of any incorporatedtaggants. However, these taggants quickly evaporate, owing to their highvolatility and high surface area. The amount of taggant present fallsbelow detectable limits, often in a matter of minutes or a few hours.The reliability of a luggage screening system that relies principally orexclusively on detection of taggants is thus dubious. The present systemis highly advantageous in being able to detect residues of plasticexplosives, whether or not so tagged. While it is highly likely thattrace residues of the high explosive constituents are present on thesurface of luggage or other parcel containing high explosive,enhancement in some form is still needed to assure their detectability.Prior art detection methods have generally relied on mechanical means,such as abrasion by a wipe or brush, or a flow of gas to dislodge asample large enough for analysis. If properly implemented, such methodscan be effective. Use of the present system represents an improvement ofthese methods, as a result of the sensitivity, accuracy and rapidity ofthe luminol analysis provided therein. However, the range ofapplications in which any of these mechanical sample collection methodsis useful is restricted by their low throughput and the difficulty ofautomating them. By way of contrast, the present laser-based collectionsystem overcomes these disadvantages. It is easily automated and canoperate rapidly.

[0058] The exact mechanism for the removal of material by laser is notfully understood but is believed to depend on laser fluence and pulselength or duration. A fluence ranging from about 1 to 50 mJ/cm² ispresently believed suitable for the practice of the invention. At lowfluences, the laser is thought to heat the material locally and raiseits vapor pressure accordingly, causing thermal desorption of a plumecontaining principally monomers, possibly including NO₂ that isthermally decomposed directly. At higher fluences (e.g., fluences >3.7mJ/cm²), it is believed that the ejection mechanism changes to ablation,in which sufficient heat is released to cause ablation of discreteparticles of material. In either case, a plume of vapor and/or particlesis liberated that can be collected and transported to a chemicalanalysis detector system in accordance with the present invention. Thedetection system can detect NO₂ emanated either directly bydecomposition of an explosive taggant or one or more substances in theexplosive or through subsequent pyrolysis of ejected explosiveparticles. It is preferred that a system of the invention operating witha laser fluence that results in substantial ablation of particlesfurther include a pyrolyzer to boost the amount of NO₂ evolved andavailable for detection. The resulting enhancement of the system'ssensitivity beneficially allows explosives to be detected at a muchlower level.

[0059] At much higher fluences, several problems become apparent.Accordingly, laser irradiation heretofore has generally been consideredunsuitable for large-scale screening systems because of its propensityto cause perceptible damage to the substrate. Moreover, high fluence,especially in combination with long pulse duration, can produce localheating that is sufficient to cause substantial deflagration ordetonation of explosive material on the surface of interest. It ispreferred that the intensity and duration of the laser illumination usedin the practice of the present invention not be sufficient to causesubstantial deflagration or detonation of an explosive substance presenton the surface being scanned. Excessive fluence may also causedecomposition of other substances of interest, such as drugs andnarcotics, precluding their detection.

[0060] Careful control of fluence is also beneficial in not removing theentirety of a surface residue containing explosives during the initialmass screening of baggage items. If an item is initially identified assuspicious by the present method, the remaining residue can be furtheranalyzed by other confirmatory forensic techniques that are moresophisticated and accurate, but entirely impractical for mass screeningas too difficult, slow, and costly.

[0061] One implementation of the laser light aspect can be understood byreference to FIG. 2. Therein is depicted an explosive detection system10 of the invention. A CO₂ gas laser 12 emits infrared laser light alongoptical path 14, which passes through focusing lens 16. The lightstrikes mirror 18, which is mounted on rotating shaft 19 of electricmotor 20. The reflected light impinges on target 22 mounted ontranslation stage 24, which is movable by turning drive screw 26.Rotation of mirror 18 causes the point of impingement 28 of light ontarget 22 to move generally along a line 30 across target 22. Vapor andparticles desorbed from target 22 are collected by vacuum 34 movablymounted on rail 36. A sample of the desorbed material is collected on aparticle trap substrate 38 mounted within a collecting tube in vacuum 34and analyzed by transferring it to an analyzer (not shown), which couldbe of the type depicted by FIG. 1. In other embodiments the particletrap could be directly mounted on the analyzer or be located on arotatable carousel allowing it to be selectively positioned fordifferent functions, such as sample collection, analysis, and cleaning.

[0062] The aspect depicted advantageously allows the light to impinge onan extended interrogation zone. However, other simpler optical systemscan be employed in instances wherein only a localized interrogation zoneneeds to be analyzed.

[0063] It is found that infrared laser radiation is effective in causingdesorption of material such as explosive residues from a surface. Anumber of systems capable of lasing at infrared wavelengths are known,including Nd:YAG and CO₂ gas, and are suitable for practice of theinvention. The effectiveness of laser radiation in causing desorption isenhanced by selection of a wavelength which the suspect material isknown to absorb strongly. Incident radiation having a wavelength thatoverlaps the absorption band is strongly absorbed, leading to strong,selective heating of the substances of interest. Laser light having awavelength at or near a peak in a material's absorption spectrum isespecially effective. Consequently, one aspect of the present inventionemploys a CO₂ gas laser, which characteristically emits radiation atseveral frequencies in the 9-11 μm wavelength range. The C-NO₂ bond,present in virtually all nitrogenous explosives, has a substantialresonant absorption in this range, making the CO₂ laser especiallysuited for use in a system for the detection of nitrogenous explosivesaccording to the present invention.

[0064] Moreover, other materials, including the substrate, whose spectrado not exhibit strong absorption at the wavelength of the incidentlight, will not absorb substantially and so will not experience undueheating or other damage. Appropriate selection of wavelength thusaffords selectivity, in that the material of interest is strongly andefficiently desorbed, while other materials are not markedly affected.The selectivity allows the intensity and duration of the illumination ofthe substrate by the laser light to be held at low levels, therebyeliminating damage to the substrate but still allowing efficientdesorption of enough sample to allow reliable detection. Thisselectivity is highly advantageous for a screening system and overcomesthe problems of surface damage heretofore presumed to be an inevitableconsequence of laser illumination. The inventors have found that carefulcontrol of both laser wavelength and pulse duration and repetition rateis a highly effective means of maximizing the generation of the desiredsample plume and minimizing collateral damage.

[0065] In addition, good selectivity enhances detection sensitivity bymore efficiently removing desired substances, while virtuallyeliminating the removal of extraneous or background material, e.g.,lint, dirt, or solvent, which frequently swamps detectors in prior artsystems and results in the need for frequent cleaning of the collectionand analysis systems. Conventional wipe-based systems are especiallyvulnerable to these difficulties. Laser desorption is also particularlyeffective in removing residue lodged in cracks and crevices of thesubstrate which are inaccessible by wiping.

[0066] The efficiency and selectivity of desorption may be furtherenhanced by altering the isotopic content of the CO₂ gas fill in thelaser. It is known in the art that the spectral lines responsible forthe laser action of a CO₂ gas laser entail molecular vibrations.Naturally occurring carbon is predominantly composed of atoms of astable isotope having an atomic weight of about 12, denoted as ¹²C, witha slight amount of the stable isotope having atomic weight of about 13,or ¹³C, and lesser amounts of the unstable radioisotope ¹⁴C. Likewise,atmospheric oxygen is predominantly composed of diatomic ¹⁶O₂, withtraces of ¹⁸O₂ and the mixed species ¹⁶O¹⁸O. Thus, normal CO₂ ispredominantly composed of ¹²C and ¹⁶O, denoted as ¹²C¹⁶O₂. However,techniques are known for the isotopic enrichment of both atoms, that isto say, the formation of a quantity of material in which the relativeabundance of the various isotopes differs from the correspondingnaturally occurring abundance. Thus, CO₂ gas enriched in any of thespecies ¹²C^(l6)O₂, ¹³C¹⁶O₂, ¹²C¹⁸O₂, and ¹³C¹⁸O₂ may be obtained. Laseraction may be established in a CO₂ gas laser based on any of thesespecies if present in sufficient concentration. The differences inatomic mass of the constituent atoms in each species give rise to aunique characteristic vibrational spectrum. Hence, laser operatingfrequencies not obtainable with normal ¹²C¹⁶O₂ can be selected byaltering the isotopic abundance in the gas charge. The efficiency andselectivity of desorption of a given contraband substance may beincreased by selection of an illuminating wavelength matched as closelyas possible to the particular absorption spectral lines of thatsubstance. Thus, lasers based on CO₂ gas with different isotopes may bepreferred for detecting particular contraband substances.

[0067] The laser radiation used in practicing this invention may beemitted continuously. Preferably, the beam of light is pulsed. Suchpulsing of the light beam is preferred because higher peak power andenergy density can be employed without undesirable damage to thesubstrate or other similar thermal side effects. The use of a shortpulse duration is preferred in that heating of the residue andunderlying surface is thereby localized, minimizing or eliminatingunwanted surface damage.

[0068] Pulsed beams may be obtained in several ways. Light from acontinuously emitting laser may be passed through an interposedmechanical chopper, which may comprise a structure such as a disk, whichhas transparent portions and portions which are opaque to light havingthe wavelength of interest. The light beam is directed through thestructure, which is rotated, as by an electric motor, to periodicallyinterrupt the optical path. The repetition rate, pulse duration, andduty cycle may be varied by changing the rotational speed of thestructure and the relative amounts of the structure that are transparentand opaque. Mechanical choppers generally have about a 50% duty cycle(i.e., the fraction of time during operation in which the chopper passeslight). They are especially useful for obtaining pulse repetition ratesof up to about 20 kHz. This rate is generally higher than may beobtained with a pulse-mode laser. Alternatively, electro-optic cells areknown which may be made transparent or opaque in response to a suitableelectrical input and operate at a higher pulse rate. A pulsed beam maybe obtained by interposing such a cell in the optical path of thepresent system and providing a suitably varying electrical input, aswould be known to one skilled in the art.

[0069] More preferably, a pulsed mode laser may be employed in thepractice of the invention. CO₂ gas lasers are known which typically givepulse duration of about 200 ns and pulse repetition rates up to about 1kHz.

[0070] In another aspect of the invention, depicted by FIG. 3, there isprovided an automated explosive detection system 60 for screeningbaggage items, such as a piece of luggage 62. A CO₂ gas laser 12 emitsinfrared laser light along an optical path 14, which passes through anoptical system comprising a focusing lens 16 and a mirror 18. The lightstrikes the mirror 18, which is mounted on a rotating shaft 19 of anelectric motor 20. Items of luggage 62 are placed on a conveyor belt 64appointed for motion along the lengthwise direction 66. Rotation of themirror 18 causes the path of light reflected therefrom generally totraverse the width of the conveyor belt 64. In operation of the system60, luggage 62 is conveyed to the region of traversal of light reflectedfrom the mirror 18. Upon impingement of light onto any point of luggage62 at which contraband residue is present, vapor and/or particlesthereof are desorbed in a plume that is collected by a collection systemcomprising vacuum heads 68 appointed for intake of the plume through oneor more inlet apertures 69. The collection system further comprisesducts 70 through which the plume is led by the action of air pump 73.The plume is urged to enter a chemical analysis system comprisingdetector 74 adapted to detect the presence of at least one contrabandsubstance by use of the chemiluminescent chemical reaction betweenluminol and NO₂. Detector 74 comprises a pyrolyzer, a reaction cellcontaining an aqueous, alkaline luminol solution, and a PMT lightdetector apparatus; the detector system may be similar to the systemdepicted by FIG. 1. An electrical output from the PMT in detector 74 isconnected by wire 75 to computer 76 associated with computer displayterminal 78. Upon detection of light from the luminol reaction with NO₂produced either by direct thermal decomposition of contraband at thesurface of luggage 62 or by pyrolysis of particles containing acontraband substance, detector 74 outputs an electrical signal tocomputer 76. Computer 76 is also operably connected to motor 20 andconveyor 64. Computer 76 is appointed to activate and control each ofmotor 20 and conveyor 64 and receive in real time signals indicative ofthe position and status of each. Software present and operable incomputer 76 is appointed to operate motor 20 and conveyor 64 in acoordinated manner so as to raster scan the point of impingement oflight reflected from mirror 18 onto luggage 62 to define an extended,two-dimensional interrogation zone. The raster scanning is carried outby simultaneously translating the luggage 62 longitudinally on conveyorbelt 64 and transversely sweeping the light beam by rotating mirror 18.Signals fed in real time indicative of the positions of the conveyorbelt and mirror are used by the software to provide real-time locationof the light beam impingement and correlate it with the intensity of thecontraband substance signal attributable to desorption from thecorresponding region of the interrogation zone. Positive indication ofthe detection of the contraband is given via computer display terminal78. Preferably the information is displayed as a mapping on computerdisplay terminal 78 indicative of the positions on the luggage at whichcontraband is or is not detected. More preferably the mapping isdisplayed superimposed on a visual representation of the luggage toprovide clear indication of the location on the actual article at whichcontraband is being detected.

[0071] Other implementations of the optical system may also be used inthe practice of the present invention. For example, the system mayemploy multiple lasers or beam splitters to produce one or moreadditional beams. Use of multiple beams impinging different regions of asample allows a plurality of locations to be screened simultaneously. Inaddition, the system may comprise multiple lasers operating at differentwavelengths to enhance detection of different contraband substancespreferentially desorbed at different wavelengths.

[0072] The optical system may comprise known optical componentsincluding apertures, lenses, mirrors, prisms, filters, and the like,appropriate for operation at the laser's wavelength. The system may bedesigned using principles known to those in the art. The optical systemacts to focus the light to a spot size preferably ranging from about 100μm to 5 mm at the sample surface. The optical system may further includeone or more deflecting optical components, such as a mirror, prism,diffraction grating, or other like means, at least one of which may bemoved to deflect the light beam, thereby changing the location at whichthe beam impinges on the surface of the object being scanned andcreating an extended interrogation zone. Known electrical, pneumatic, ormechanical means may be used to impart linear or rotary motion to thecomponent and thereby extend the interrogation zone. For example, insome aspects of the invention the beam is reflected from a rotatingmirror affixed to the shaft of an electric motor to extend theinterrogation zone.

[0073] In addition to the aforesaid motion means comprising opticaldeflection of the interrogating light beam and a conveyor belt to moveluggage, other motion means may also be employed, including robotic armsto hold and manipulate the luggage and gantry systems to move parts ofthe laser and detector systems. Additional motion means will also beapparent to one skilled in the art and fall within the scope of thepresent invention.

[0074] The present system comprises a collection system or collectionmeans for collecting vapor or particles suspected to contain contrabandanalyte substances. In some aspects the system comprises an air deliverymeans such as an air pump acting either as a blower or to produce a mildor substantial vacuum, depending on its location within the collectionsystem. The resulting air flow urges the analyte to enter the collectionsystem through one or more inlet ports or apertures, and thence to passthrough associated ducting that substantially transfer it to thereaction cell. In some implementations the collection system employs acollection substrate that may be contained in a collection tube.Furthermore, the collection tube may be removable to allow collection ofthe sample to be carried out at a location remote from the rest of theanalytical apparatus. The tube may have only a single aperture thatserves both as an entry and an exhaust point, or the tube may haveseparate openings to facilitate air flow through the tube. Thecollection substrate may be an integral part of the collection tube or aseparate structure. Preferred substrates include wire meshes and glasswool. More preferred are adsorbents such as activated carbon. Mostpreferred is an adsorbent powder of poly(2,6-Diphenyl phenylene oxide).The use of a collection substrate advantageously allows accumulation andpreconcentration of vapor or particles to enhance the system'ssensitivity to weak concentrations of analyete. It is also preferredthat a heater be provided to desorb sample captured on a substrate ifsuch is used.

[0075] The collection means employed in some aspects of the presentinvention comprises a wipe used to collect a sample mechanically. Asused herein, the term “wipe” includes disposable swabs or wipes of drypaper or cloth or similar items that are rubbed or stroked againstbaggage items, luggage, or shipping containers to mechanically remove orabrade surface residue. The removed residue is then tested for thepresence therein of explosives or other contraband using theluminol-based system presented herein. Such wipes may also be wettedwith a solvent to facilitate residue pickup. In either case, the wipemay be placed over an aperture of the collection system so that air flowor other means can transfer the analyte into the detection system. Othermechanical means will also be apparent for collecting the analyte andtransferring it for analysis, such as impingement of a high velocityflow of compressed gas to dislodge such residue from the surface of abaggage item.

[0076] Aspects of the method of the present invention using mechanicalcollection of sample generally comprise the steps of: (i) accumulating asample of surface residue onto a collection substrate; (ii) heating thecollection substrate to release a portion of the surface residue; (iii)pyrolyzing the released material to produce a detectable amount of NO₂;(iv) transferring the NO₂ to a reaction cell, a portion of whichcontains an aqueous, alkaline luminol solution separated from the restof the reaction cell by a semi-permeable, hydrophobic membrane; (v)reacting, within the reaction cell, the NO₂ and the luminol in thepresence of O₂ to produce light by chemiluminescence; and (vi) detectingthe light with a light detector to indicate the detection of NO₂ arisingfrom contraband within the surface residue.

[0077] In an aspect of the invention, the detector provides anelectrical output signal representative of the detection of a contrabandsubstance. Preferably the output signal has a magnitude that isproportional to the amount of a substance being detected. The detectormay be adjusted and calibrated by an appropriate protocol, such as byestablishing a background electrical output when it is known that nosubstance is actually present or by exposing the detector to a samplewith a known concentration. It is then presumed that any signal above apreselected background level is indicative of the presence of asubstance of interest. Alternatively, a background level may bedetermined dynamically during scanner operation by a known averagingprotocol.

[0078] Indication of the detector signal output may be given by a widevariety of signal means known in the art. A binary “go/no go” indicationmay be provided using known comparator circuitry, in which the magnitudeof the signal actually outputted by the detector is compared with apre-selected detection threshold, and in response, audible or visiblesignals are activated, indicative of the presence or absence of a signalabove the pre-selected threshold. The output of the detector may also bedisplayed as a quantitative reading on a digital or analog meter or bardisplay. The signal means may also comprise a computer display screen orterminal, which may display a reading in alphanumeric form or in animage simulating an analog mechanical meter or gage. More preferably, aquantitative output may also be given by the intensity or pattern ofcolor displayed on a monitor such as a computer display screen orterminal. Such a visual display is preferred for embodiments of theinvention in which an extended, two-dimensional interrogation area orzone is screened. In one aspect of the invention, a visualrepresentation of the object being scanned is presented on a computerdisplay screen and superimposed on the visual representation is apattern or mapping, which, by variation of intensity or color, indicatesthe amount of contraband substance of a given type found on thecorresponding area of the article surface. A mapping may use afalse-color scheme to indicate different amounts detected.Alternatively, the presence of different contraband substances may berepresented by different colors, intensity, or shading patterns. Thesignal means may also be capable of transmitting an alarm by wired orwireless transmission to alert police or other authorities to thepossible detection of contraband substance

[0079] The present system is also capable of detecting NO₂ produced bythe decomposition of inorganic nitrate salts used as explosives, such asammonium nitrate (AN) or mixtures of ammonium nitrate with fuel oil orthe like (ANFO). In addition, the luminol reaction system of the presentinvention can be used to detect organic peroxides. Exemplary of suchdetection is the following reaction with a commonly used explosivematerial, tri-acetone tri-peroxide (TATP):

[0080] The present laser desorption and detection system may also beadvantageously combined with other known scanning systems, such asmagnetometric and x-ray systems, or with other systems usingcomplementary forms of chemical analysis. A system combining thedetection methods can be made more compact and efficient, therebysatisfying the detection sensitivity and throughput required forscreening of passengers and hand luggage in airports, for example.

[0081] The following examples are presented to provide a more completeunderstanding of the invention. The specific techniques, conditions,materials, proportions and reported data set forth to illustrate theprinciples and practice of the invention are exemplary and should not beconstrued as limiting the scope of the invention.

EXAMPLE 1

[0082] The efficacy of the luminol reaction for the detection of minuteamounts of NO₂ was tested. Flowing, ambient laboratory air was suppliedto a dilution/mixing chamber at a controlled pressure and flow rate. Asmall amount of NO₂ from a gas cylinder was alternately added or not soas to provide a test gas that alternately contained or did not containNO₂ at 10 parts per billion (ppb) concentration. The test gas thenpassed into a reaction cell containing a piece of filter paper saturatedwith an alkaline, aqueous 10⁻³ M luminol solution that further contained1.0 M KOH and 10⁻¹ M Na₂SO₃. Light produced by the chemiluminescentreaction of the luminol and any NO₂ present was detected using anElectron Tubes Inc. Model P10232 commercial light detector. The unitcomprised a photomultiplier tube, a high voltage power supply, a highspeed amplifier-discriminator, and an embedded microcontroller. Thenumber of counts registered by the PMT system per 50 ms increment wasrecorded continuously. FIG. 4 depicts the response of the detector overan extended period. A pattern approximating a square wave was seen, withthe peaks coinciding with the times during which NO₂ was beingintroduced into the air carrier gas. Detection was clearly achieved at ahigh signal to noise ratio.

EXAMPLE 2

[0083] An experiment similar to that of Example 1 was carried out todemonstrate the detectability of the common taggant DMNB. In this case,a collection tube containing Tenax GC adsorbent was connected to avacuum at one end to draw in a test gas which entered at the other end.The test gas, composed of laboratory air and 100 parts per trillion(ppt) of DMNB, was prepared with the same dilution system used incarrying out Example 1. The exposed collection tube, containingpreconcentrated DMNB adsorbed from the above exposure was then connectedat one end to a source of flowing air and at the other end to apyrolyzer tube containing a Pt—Rh alloy wire that could be electricallyheated. The collection tube was placed in a heater chamber to desorb theDMNB which was swept by the carrier gas into the pyrolyzer tube. ThePt—Rh wire was pulse heated to about 700° C. to pyrolyze the DMNB toproduce NO₂ which was subsequently swept into a reaction cell containinga piece of filter paper saturated with an alkaline, aqueous 10⁻³ Mluminol solution that further contained 1.0 M KOH and 10⁻¹ M Na₂SO₃.

[0084] Light produced by the chemiluminescent reaction of the luminoland the NO₂ pyrolysis product was detected using the same light detectoremployed for the experiment of Example 1. The same experimentalprocedure was also carried out without introducing the DMNB. FIG. 5depicts the light detected in each case, with trace 102 showing thepulse with DMNB and background trace 104 with only carrier gas. The risein each pulse corresponds to the initiation of the pulse heating of thepyrolyzer catalyst. Without being bound by any theory, it is believedthat the background trace 104 is attributable to NO₂ produced by directreaction of atmospheric N₂ and O₂ in the presence of the catalyticallyactive heated Pt—Rh wire.

[0085] As revealed by FIG. 5, DMNB is readily detected by the presentsystem at the 100 ppt level as evidenced by a total integrated countsignificantly above background. The signal to noise ratio evident inFIG. 5 clearly demonstrates that DMNB would be detectable, even atlevels far less than 100 ppt.

EXAMPLE 3

[0086] The experiment carried out in Example 2 was repeated using DMNBpresent at a series of different concentrations. FIG. 6 depicts theresults of these experiments, traces 112, 114, 116, and 118 in FIG. 6representing, respectively, concentrations of 100, 200, 500, and 1000ppt (1 ppb), respectively. The presence of DMNB is clearly detectable ateach of the concentrations, as signaled by an integrated photon countsignificantly over background that increased with increasing DMNBconcentration.

EXAMPLE 4

[0087] A series of experiments was carried out to demonstrate thedetectability of the taggant DMNB present in air at differentconcentrations. Samples of DMNB were collected using a protocol similarto that used in Examples 2 and 3. For each concentration, a collectiontube, open at both ends and containing Tenax GC adsorbent, was exposedto a test gas, which contained DMNB at the requisite concentrationprepared with the same dilution system used in carrying out Example 1.The collection tube, containing preconcentrated DMNB from the aboveexposure was then connected at one end to a source of flowing air and atthe other end to a pyrolyzer tube containing a Pt—Rh alloy wire thatcould be electrically heated. The collection tube was placed in a heaterchamber to desorb the DMNB which was swept by the carrier gas into thepyrolyzer tube. The Pt—Rh wire was pulse heated to about 700° C. topyrolyze the DMNB to produce NO₂ which was subsequently swept into areaction cell. A portion of the volume of reaction cell contained analkaline, aqueous 10⁻³ M luminol solution that further contained 1.0 MKOH and 10⁻¹ M Na₂SO₃. The luminol solution was separated from theremainder of the reaction cell volume by a semi-permeable, hydrophobicPTFE membrane. The membrane was permeable to NO₂, thereby allowingdiffusion to bring the NO₂ reactably into contact with the luminol.Light emitted chemiluminescently was detected by a PMT coupled to thereaction cell.

[0088]FIG. 7 depicts the total photon count recorded by thephotomultiplier tube system for the concentrations of DMNB indicated.Both the total count and the initial count rate increased withincreasing DMNB. Significant increases above background were seen in theintegrated photon count, even for a DMNB concentration as low as 100ppt, confirming the efficacy of the present system in detecting DMNBtaggant at minute concentration levels.

EXAMPLE 5

[0089] A series of experiments was carried out to demonstrate thedetectability of the explosives EGDN and NG, as well as the taggantDMNB, each present in air at a 1 ppb concentration. Samples of eachexplosive and DMNB were collected and tested using techniques similar tothose used in Example 4. For each material, a collection tube, open atboth ends and containing a Tenax GC adsorbent, was exposed to a testgas, which contained the material at the requisite concentration and hadbeen prepared with the same dilution system used in carrying outExample 1. The collection tube, containing the preconcentrated materialfrom the above exposure was then connected at one end to a source offlowing air and at the other end to a pyrolyzer tube containing a Pt—Rhalloy wire that could be electrically heated. The collection tube wasplaced in a heater chamber to desorb each substance which was swept bythe carrier gas into the pyrolyzer tube. The Pt—Rh wire was pulse heatedto about 700° C. to pyrolyze the substance to produce NO₂ which wassubsequently swept into a reaction cell. A portion of the volume ofreaction cell contained an alkaline, aqueous 10⁻³ M luminol solutionthat further contained 1.0 M KOH and 10⁻¹ M Na₂SO₃. The luminol solutionwas separated from the remainder of the reaction cell volume by asemi-permeable, hydrophobic PTFE membrane.

[0090] The total photon counts recorded by the PMT system are depictedin FIG. 8 for each of the substances. The corresponding values for ablank sample are also shown. It is apparent that total countssignificantly above background were obtained for each substance,demonstrating the efficacy of the disclosed apparatus and method forexplosive detection.

EXAMPLE 6

[0091] Another series of experiments was carried out to demonstrate thedetectability of various explosives collected on a collecting substrate.Samples of various explosive agents were prepared by depositing fromsolution 100 ng of each agent onto a stainless steel mesh disposed in aglass tube. The collected material was then heated to desorb the samplefrom the substrate. Each sample tube in turn was connected at one end toa source of carrier gas and at the other to the inlet of a pyrolyzerwith a Pt—Rh alloy wire that would be pulse heated to a preselectedtemperature. The outlet of the pyrolyzer was connected to a reactioncell having a luminol solution separated from the remainder of thereaction cell by a semi-permeable, hydrophobic PTFE membrane. Thesolution had the same composition as that used in carrying out Example 5above. The pyrolyzer was heated to about 700° C. for about 2 sec toproduce NO₂ which was swept by the carrier gas into the reaction cell.The total light output from the chemiluminescent reaction of luminol andNO₂ was recorded for each of the agents to yield the data depicted byFIG. 9. Each of the agents gave a detectable signal substantially abovebackground.

EXAMPLE 7

[0092] Another series of experiments was carried out to demonstrate thedetectability of various explosives desorbed from a surface by laserablation using a CO₂ laser.

[0093] Test targets were made by several procedures. Samples containingsticky residue from C4 and DM12 plastic explosives were made by havingan operator handle the respective material for an interval and thenapply a fingerprint to a glass slide to transfer residual material fromhis hand to the slide. A third sample was made by dissolving C4 inmethanol, applying the solution to a glass slide substrate, and allowingthe solution to dry. The amount of C4 explosive present on the target(about 1 μg) was inferred from the amount of solution applied and theknown concentration. A fourth sample was prepared by spreading about 1μg on a glass slide by dry transfer.

[0094] Each target was tested in turn by placing it in a holder thatallowed it to be illuminated by a chopped CO₂ gas laser and to betranslated. The plume evolved was tested. The laser was a SynradEvolution 125 unit operating in continuous mode and chopped at about 5KHz with about a 25% duty cycle. The target was exposed to about 1000pulses of light distributed over the surface, so that at least a portionof any nitro-explosive present on the surface would be decomposed toproduce NO₂ without causing any appreciable damage to the substrate. Theplume was drawn into a sampler situated about 10 cm from the focusedspot and conveyed to a reaction cell containing an aqueous luminolsolution separated from the rest of the reaction cell by asemi-permeable, hydrophobic PTFE membrane. The solution contained 10⁻³ Mluminol, 1.0 M KOH, and 10⁻¹ M Na₂SO₃. Light emitted as a result of thechemiluminescent reaction of luminol and NO₂ was detected by aphotomultiplier tube system. FIG. 10 depicts the count rate recorded bythe PMT system for substrates on which various agents had beendeposited. Traces 122, 124, 126, and 128 correspond, respectively, tofingerprints of the person who had handled samples of C4 and DM12, anddeposits of 1 μg of C4 from solution and 1 μg of C4 by dry transfer.Trace 130 is derived from a clean glass slide. It may clearly be seenthat count rates significantly above background were seen for each ofthese samples containing common nitrogen-bearing plastic explosiveshaving inherently low vapor pressures. The results demonstrate theability of the system to detect the presence of such explosive residueson a substrate without appreciable damage thereto.

[0095] Having thus described the invention in rather full detail, itwill be understood that such detail need not be strictly adhered to butthat various changes and modifications may suggest themselves to oneskilled in the art, all falling within the scope of the presentinvention as defined by the subjoined claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for screening at least a portion of thesurface of a baggage item for the presence thereon of a contrabandsubstance, the system comprising: a. an infrared laser adapted to emitlight; b. an optical system adapted to deliver a beam of said lightemitted from said infrared laser to illuminate an interrogation area ofsaid surface, said illumination having sufficient intensity and durationto cause selective desorption of molecules of said contraband substancepresent within said interrogation area without substantially damagingsaid surface, and at least a portion of said molecules being thermallydecomposed to produce NO₂ molecules; c. a collection system having atleast one aperture and being adapted to collect at least a portion ofsaid desorbed molecules through said aperture; d. a reaction cell incommunication with said collection system, said reaction cell having areaction zone, an inlet for receiving in said reaction zone saidmolecules collected by said collection system; and an outlet for releaseof said air, and said reaction cell containing an alkaline, aqueousluminol-containing solution; e. a light detector for detecting lightproduced chemiluminescently by a chemical reaction between said luminoland said NO₂ within said reaction cell, and for outputting an electricalsignal indicative of the detection of said light; and f. signal meansfor indicating the presence of said NO₂ produced by the decomposition ofsaid contraband substance, said signal means being operably connected tosaid light detector and responsive to the receipt of said electricalsignal.
 2. A system as recited by claim 1, wherein said contrabandsubstance comprises an organo-nitro explosive.
 3. A system as recited byclaim 1, wherein said intensity and duration of said illumination issuch that at least a portion of said contraband substance is thermallydecomposed to produce molecules of NO₂.
 4. A system as recited by claim1, wherein said intensity and duration of said illumination is such thatat least a portion of said desorbed molecules is comprised in particlesof said contraband substance ablated from said surface by saidillumination.
 5. A system as recited by claim 1, said collection systemcomprising an air pump for urging said desorbed molecules through saidcollection system and into said reaction cell.
 6. A system as recited byclaim 1, said collection system comprising a collection substrate onwhich molecules entering said collection system are accumulated and aheater to cause desorption of said accumulated molecules from saidsubstrate.
 7. A system as recited by claim 1, further comprising: g. apyrolyzer located between said aperture of said collection system andsaid inlet of said reaction cell and containing a catalyst forpyrolyzing molecules of said contraband substance to produce NO₂.
 8. Asystem as recited by claim 1, wherein said catalyst is a heated wirecomprising Pt.
 9. A system as recited by claim 8, wherein said heatedwire consists essentially of a Pt—Rh alloy.
 10. A system as recited byclaim 1 wherein said solution comprises luminol present at aconcentration ranging from about 0.3 to 3 mM.
 11. A system as recited byclaim 1 wherein said solution comprises KOH present at a concentrationranging from about 10⁻³ to 5 M.
 12. A system as recited by claim 1wherein said solution comprises at least one sulfur compound present ata concentration ranging from about 10⁻³ to 0.1 M, said compound beingselected from the group consisting of Na₂S, Na₂S₂O₄, and Na₂SO₃.
 13. Asystem as recited by claim 1, wherein said solution comprises 1 mMluminol, 1 M KOH, and 0.1 M Na₂SO₃.
 14. A system as recited by claim 1,wherein said solution further comprises a chemiluminescence enhancer.15. A system as recited by claim 1, wherein said solution furthercomprises a lower alcohol.
 16. A system as recited by claim 1, furthercomprising a semi-permeable, hydrophobic membrane separating saidluminol-containing solution from said reaction zone.
 17. A system asrecited by claim 16, wherein said hydrophobic membrane consistsessentially of at least one of PTFE and polypropylene.
 18. A system asrecited by claim 16, wherein said hydrophobic membrane has a pore sizeranging from about 0.1 to 8 μm.
 19. A system as recited by claim 16,wherein said solution is provided in a replaceable cartridge and sealedtherein by said semi-permeable, hydrophobic membrane.
 20. A system asrecited by claim 1, wherein said light detector comprises aphotomultiplier tube.
 21. A system as recited by claim 1, furthercomprising: h. a digital computer for controlling said apparatus andanalyzing the output of said detector.
 22. A system as recited by claim1, further comprising: i. motion means for relatively moving saidbaggage item and said beam of light to illuminate an extendedinterrogation zone.
 23. A system as recited by claim 22, wherein saidmotion means comprises at least one movable optically deflectingcomponent in said optical system which movably deflects said light toilluminate said extended interrogation zone.
 24. A system as recited byclaim 23, wherein said optically deflecting component is at least onerotating mirror.
 25. A system as recited by claim 22, wherein saidmotion means comprises a conveyor belt for moving said baggage item. 26.A system as recited by claim 22, wherein said beam of light is rasterscanned over said extended interrogation zone.
 27. A system as recitedby claim 22, wherein said signal means comprises a computer displayterminal adapted to display a mapping indicative of the locations onsaid baggage item at which a contraband substance has been detected. 28.A system as recited by claim 27, wherein said computer display terminalis adapted to display a visual representation of said baggage item andsaid mapping is a false color mapping superimposed on said visualrepresentation.
 29. For use in a reaction cell in a system for screeningat least a portion of the surface of a baggage item for the presencethereon of a contraband substance, a replaceable cartridge comprising analkaline, aqueous, luminol-containing solution sealed therein by asemi-permeable, hydrophobic membrane.
 30. A method of scanning at leasta portion of the surface of a baggage item for the presence thereon ofat least one contraband substance, the method comprising the steps of:a. illuminating an interrogation area of said surface with infraredlaser light to selectively desorb molecules of said contrabandsubstance; b. thermally decomposing at least a portion of said desorbedmolecules to form NO₂; c. passing said NO₂ into a reaction cell, saidreaction cell having a reaction zone and comprising an aqueous,alkaline, luminol-containing solution; d. reacting said NO₂ in saidreaction cell with said luminol to produce light and e. detecting saidlight; and f. signaling the detection of said light to indicate thepresence of said contraband substance on the surface of said baggageitem.
 31. A method as recited by claim 30, said reaction cell furthercomprising a semi-permeable, hydrophobic membrane separating saidluminol solution from said reaction zone.
 32. A method as recited byclaim 31, wherein said luminol solution is furnished in a replaceablecartridge sealed by said semi-permeable membrane.
 33. A method asrecited by claim 30, wherein said illumination has an intensity and aduration such that at least a portion of said contraband substance isthermally decomposed to produce molecules of NO₂.
 34. A method asrecited by claim 30, wherein said illumination has an intensity and aduration such that a plurality of particles of said contraband substanceare ablated from said surface by said illumination.
 35. A method asrecited by claim 30, further comprising the steps of: g. accumulatingsaid desorbed molecules of said contraband substance on a collectionsubstrate; and h. heating said collection substrate to cause desorptionof said accumulated molecules from substrate.
 36. A method as recited byclaim 35, wherein said collection substrate comprises an adsorbent. 37.A method as recited by claim 30, further comprising the step of: i.pyrolyzing said desorbed molecules to form NO₂.
 38. An apparatus fordetecting the presence of NO₂ in air, comprising: a. air delivery meansfor delivering a sample of air suspected to contain NO₂; b. a reactioncell in communication with said air delivery means, said reaction cellhaving a reaction zone, an inlet for receiving into said reaction zonesaid sample from said air delivery means, an outlet for release of saidsample, and said reaction cell comprising a semi-permeable, hydrophobicmembrane and an alkaline, aqueous, luminol-containing solution separatedby said membrane from said zone; c. a light detector to detect lightproduced chemiluminescently by a chemical reaction between said luminoland said NO₂ within said reaction cell and to output an electricalsignal indicative of the detection of said light; and d. signal meansfor indicating the presence of said NO₂, said signal means beingoperably connected to said light detector and responsive to the receiptof said electrical signal.
 39. An apparatus for detecting the presenceof a contraband substance present in residue on the surface of anobject, comprising: a. collection means for collecting a sample of saidresidue and introducing said sample into a flow of air; b. decompositionmeans for decomposing at least a portion of said contraband substance insaid sample to produce NO₂ within said air; c. an intake port forreceiving said air; d. an air pump to urge said air to enter said intakeport; e. a reaction cell in communication with said intake port, saidreaction cell having a reaction zone, an inlet for receiving in saidreaction zone said air containing said NO₂ from said intake port, and anoutlet for release of said air, said reaction cell comprising asemi-permeable, hydrophobic membrane and an alkaline, aqueous,luminol-containing solution separated from said zone by said membrane;f. a light detector to detect light produced chemiluminescently by achemical reaction between said luminol and said NO₂ within said reactioncell and to output an electrical signal indicative of the detection ofsaid light; and g. signal means for indicating the presence of said NO₂produced by the decomposition of said contraband substance, said signalmeans being operably connected to said light detector and responsive tothe receipt of said electrical signal.
 40. An apparatus as recited byclaim 39, wherein said collection means comprises a collection tubecontaining a collection substrate for collecting particles or vapor anda heater for releasing said particles or vapor collected on saidsubstrate into said intake port.
 41. An apparatus as recited by claim40, wherein said collection substrate comprises an adsorbent at leastpartially filling said collection tube.
 42. An apparatus as recited byclaim 40, wherein said collection tube is separable from said intakeport.
 43. An apparatus as recited by claim 39, wherein said collectionmeans comprises a wipe for removing a portion of said residue from saidsurface.
 44. An apparatus as recited by claim 39, wherein saidcollection means comprises an infrared laser for illuminating saidsurface to thermally desorb at least a portion of said residue to formsaid sample.
 45. An apparatus as recited by claim 39, wherein saiddecomposition means comprises an infrared laser for illuminating saidsurface to decompose at least a portion of said contraband substance insaid sample to produce NO₂.
 46. An apparatus as recited by claim 39,wherein said collection means comprises an infrared laser forilluminating said surface to ablate particles of said contrabandsubstance to form said sample.
 47. An apparatus as recited by claim 39,wherein said decomposition means comprises a pyrolyzer located betweensaid intake port and said inlet of said reaction cell, said pyrolyzercontaining a catalyst for pyrolyzing said contraband substance toproduce NO₂.
 48. A method of detecting the presence of a contrabandsubstance present in residue on the surface of an object, comprising thesteps of: a. collecting a sample of said residue and introducing saidsample into a flow of air; b. decomposing at least a portion of saidcontraband substance in said sample to produce NO₂ within said air; c.receiving said air in an intake port; d. conveying said air to areaction cell in communication with said intake port, said reaction cellhaving a reaction zone and comprising a semi-permeable, hydrophobicmembrane and an alkaline, aqueous, luminol-containing solution separatedby said membrane from said zone; e. reacting said luminol and said NO₂within said reaction cell to produce light chemiluminescently; f.detecting said light; and g. signaling the detection of said light toindicate the presence of said NO₂ produced by the decomposition of saidcontraband substance.
 49. A method as recited by claim 48, wherein saidcollecting step comprises accumulating a sample of said contrabandsubstance onto a collection substrate and heating the substrate torelease at least a portion of said accumulated sample.
 50. A method asrecited by claim 49, wherein said collecting step further comprisesmechanically removing a portion of said residue for transfer to saidcollection substrate.
 51. A method as recited by claim 48, furthercomprising the step of: h. pyrolyzing said contraband substance toproduce NO₂.
 52. A system as recited by claim 1, further comprising anoptical filter interposed between said reaction cell and said lightdetector, said filter selectively transmitting light having a wavelengthwithin a preselected range encompassing the wavelengths emitted by saidreaction between said luminol and said NO₂.
 53. A system as recited byclaim 7, wherein said pyrolyzer is pulse heated to a temperature rangingfrom about 300 to 800° C.
 54. A system as recited by claim 53, whereinsaid temperature ranges from about 500 to 700° C.
 55. A system asrecited by claim 1, wherein said solution further comprises at least onealcohol selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol,propanol, isopropanol, and butanol.